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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support project teams and learn from industry professionals while working on exciting construction projects.
- Company: Join McLaughlin & Harvey, a leader in construction with over 170 years of experience.
- Benefits: Fully funded university course, hands-on experience, competitive salary, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in construction with a supportive team and real-world experience.
- Qualifications: Strong interest in construction, teamwork skills, and a proactive attitude.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with mentoring and training across various departments.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Bristol
Start Date: August 2026
Build Your Future with McLaughlin & Harvey
At McLaughlin & Harvey our purpose is simple: Building Together. Unlocking Potential. With over 170 years of experience in delivering high-quality construction and civil engineering projects, McLaughlin & Harvey is dedicated to developing the next generation of construction leaders. Our work is guided by three core values: We collaborate. We Commit. We Care. These values reflect what we believe is important in this world and shape everything we do, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for our people to thrive. As a Trainee you will play an important role in bringing these values to life.
Our Trainee Programme blends practical industry-based experience with structured academic learning, equipping you with the skills to succeed as a construction professional.
The Opportunity
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join McLaughlin & Harvey as a Trainee Design Manager. This is an exciting opportunity to gain invaluable experience with an industry leader, whilst studying towards a recognised qualification. As a Trainee you will learn from construction professionals, support project teams deliver high-quality construction projects and develop the core skills required for a successful career in the industry.
What You’ll Do At Work
- You will attend university 1 day per week and the rest of the week will be spent working alongside project teams on a range of high-profile projects.
- Assist the Design Managers with drawing and document control systems, while coordinating closely with Document Controllers.
- Assist the Design Managers and wider project team in procurement planning and the review of project scope, including variation and change control processes.
- Learn about McLaughlin & Harvey standards and safety regulations.
- Assist the Design Managers with on-site preparation and management of the site Quality Assurance.
- Collaborate with McLaughlin & Harvey teams and develop skills through training, feedback and hands‑on experience.
What You’ll Study
You will be enrolled onto the part‑time BSc (Hons) Construction Project Management course at the University of the West of England. Your place at university will be fully funded and you will receive additional training and development opportunities as part of our Trainee Programme. Training will include experience across a range of departments to develop a broader understanding of business operations, while contributing to engaging, challenging projects.
What We’re Looking For
- A strong interest in construction and civil engineering.
- A strong ability to work effectively as a team.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- A clear and professional communication style.
- A proactive approach to problem solving.
Essential Requirements
- University entry requirements: GCSE: Grade C/4 in English and Mathematics, or equivalent.
- In addition to the above Level 2 qualifications, you’ll need to achieve the published tariff points from your Level 3 studies prior to entry.
- Tariff points: 104.
- Must have a valid driving licence by the commencement of employment.
What We Offer
- A structured Trainee Programme with recognised qualifications.
- Hands‑on experience on exciting projects across the UK and Northern Ireland.
- Mentoring and support from industry professionals.
- Opportunities for long‑term career progression.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative working environment.
How To Apply
If you’re ready to start a rewarding construction career with an industry leader that values your skills and supports your growth, we’d love to hear from you! Apply by clicking apply below.
McLaughlin & Harvey are an equal opportunities employer who are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination or harassment. We expect every employee to care and commit to their contribution to the cultivation and maintenance of an environment where everyone has the opportunity to feel included and is afforded the respect and dignity they deserve. As a Disability Confident employer we are committed to inclusive and accessible recruitment where we will provide all reasonable adjustments at interview stage and beyond and commit to extending an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum job role requirements.
Trainee Design Manager in Bristol employer: McLaughlin & Harvey
Contact Detail:
McLaughlin & Harvey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Design Manager in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the construction industry, especially those at McLaughlin & Harvey. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might help you land that Trainee Design Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interviews by researching McLaughlin & Harvey’s projects and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your enthusiasm for their mission of 'Building Together'. Tailor your answers to reflect how you embody their core values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or family member to conduct mock interviews with you. Focus on articulating your passion for construction and your eagerness to learn. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at McLaughlin & Harvey. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey together!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Design Manager in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Construction: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for construction and civil engineering shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the industry and eager to learn from the best!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect how your skills and experiences align with our core values: Collaborate, Commit, and Care. This shows us that you understand what we stand for and how you can contribute.
Be Clear and Professional: Use a clear and professional communication style in your written application. We appreciate well-structured responses that are easy to read and convey your thoughts effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at McLaughlin & Harvey.
How to prepare for a job interview at McLaughlin & Harvey
✨Know the Company Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand McLaughlin & Harvey's core values: collaboration, commitment, and care. Think about how these values resonate with your own experiences and be ready to share examples that demonstrate your alignment with them.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Construction
As a Trainee Design Manager, your passion for construction and civil engineering is crucial. Prepare to discuss why you're interested in this field and any relevant projects or experiences you've had. This will show your genuine motivation and eagerness to learn.
✨Prepare for Teamwork Questions
Since teamwork is essential in this role, expect questions about your ability to work effectively with others. Think of specific instances where you collaborated on a project or solved a problem as part of a team, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Practice Clear Communication
A clear and professional communication style is key for this position. During your interview, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to get comfortable with expressing your ideas.